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The Kean Review: Journal in Student Research

Publication Date

1-30-2026

Document Type

Research Article and Study

Abstract

This study explores how clothing choices impact the treatment of women in American society. A total of 29 participants, including 24 women, completed a survey that examined their views on first impressions, societal expectations of attire, and the impact of clothing on personal and career opportunities. Results indicated that most participants acknowledged the influence of first impressions on how they treat others, supporting the idea that clothing plays a significant role in shaping one’s behaviors towards another. While most participants did not alter their judgment of women's clothing based on sexual orientation, therefore not being able to fully link sexuality, clothing, and treatment, the majority of women reported experiencing different treatment depending on whether they dressed in more feminine or masculine styles. These findings suggest that women’s clothing attire continues to be a key factor in influencing their day-to-day social interactions. The study highlights how first impressions and perceptions of U.S. women’s choice of style highly impact how they are treated within their communities and environment.

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